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The cyclooxygenase (COX) enzyme has two forms: COX­1 and COX­2. COX­1 is found in a lot of cells all the time, notably the lining of the stomach where it regulates acid production. COX­2 is not present in most cells normally, only appearing when things are going wrong. As a result, COX­2 was thought to be responsible for the bad effects of the COX enzyme­pain and inflammation. Vioxx was developed based on this belief that COX­2 was responsible for the bad effects of the COX enzyme and to reduce or even eliminate the gastrointestinal risks involved with the non­selective (traditional) NSAIDs like Aspirin ( acetylsalicylic acid, ASA), Ibuprofen, Nabumetone and Naproxen, that inhibit both COX­1 and COX­2 enzymes. However, COX­2 serves other purposes besides its role in inflammation. Among the purposes the COX­2 enzyme serves is that it plays a major role in controlling the cardiovascular system­stopping platelets from forming blood clots (thrombi ­ plural form of thrombus) in the heart, and preventing damage to vessels. It also serves other functions that are beyond the scope of this FAQ to explain.